International Women’s Day: The Voices of Women in Music

Blog

Monday 2 Mar 2026

International Women’s Day is about celebrating women everywhere – their creativity, their resilience, their brilliance and the everyday ways they shape the world around us. It’s a moment to pause and recognise just how much richer our communities, workplaces and culture are because of the women within them.

Today, we’re shining a particular light on women in the music industry. Music has the power to move people, to challenge perspectives and to bring us together – and women are central to that impact. From the artists who write and perform the songs that define generations, to the promoters, producers, technicians, marketers and event teams working tirelessly behind the scenes, women help shape not just what we hear, but how the industry itself evolves.

The industry hasn’t always made space easily or equally. But time and time again, women have stepped forward anyway; leading, creating, organising, advocating and reshaping what music spaces can look and feel like. When women are visible across every part of the industry, it doesn’t just change who’s in the room – it changes the room itself. The stories told are broader. The environments feel safer. The possibilities stretch further.

So, to celebrate International Women’s Day, we asked some of the women on our team to share what being a woman in music means to them – the realities, the pride, the challenges and the joy that come with being part of this ever-evolving industry.

“Working at Bristol Beacon, I feel so privileged and empowered to be surrounded by so many supportive, funny and inspiring women across the organisation, from Finance to Front of House and Production to People teams.

Areas within the business like Communications and Community Engagement have particularly strong female-representation. Within my role, it is wonderful to be part of such lovely communities of women who really look after each other, always have each other’s backs, and who work so hard to spearhead positive change, and bring about exciting new initiatives, all whilst striving to bring care, thoughtfulness and compassion to the workplace and all of outputs.”

Eleanor Benson, Marketing Officer

“I’ve been involved in music in one form or another since childhood. The industry can be challenging, but the people make it worthwhile, and no two days are ever the same.

It constantly pushes me beyond my limits, achieving things that sometimes feel impossible at the start of a production.

It’s not just about the 90-minute set; it’s the days and weeks of preparation that build toward a unique moment that can never be replicated. Every audience, every show brings new energy.

The greatest reward is sharing the work and being a small part of people’s memories and enjoyment.”

Hannah Chittell, Production and Event Coordinator

“To me, being a woman in music is about showing up and advocating every day on behalf of all women. Men apply for a job when they meet only 60% of the qualifications, but women apply only if they meet 100% of them.*

Women deserve a space in the industry, and often have to prove they are capable to a much higher level. I would like to see more women being afforded the opportunities to advance through the industry.

In my time off, I work with an organisation called Safer Spaces Now CIC, who aim to prevent and respond to incidents of domestic abuse and sexual violence at festivals and large scale events. This team is female-led, and encapsulates the joy and outcomes of what a team of talented and passionate women can achieve in the industry. Knowing that events can be safe for those attending and working is hugely up lifting.”

Aby Sheppard, Assistant House Manager

*Read more from Harvard Business Review

Learn more about Women in Music – the community of women committed to advancing equality, visibility and opportunities for women in the musical arts through education, support, empowerment and recognition.

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